For a long time, I struggled with the disappointment and confusion that followed each setback. I spent many years in law enforcement and dedicated myself to serving my community. I held leadership roles, earned recognition for going beyond the call of duty, and worked hard to make a difference. When those roles came to an end, it was painful. At the time, I did not understand why the doors were closing. Looking back, I can see something important. Each closed door was pushing me toward the place where I truly belonged. That place was the classroom.

When One Chapter Ends, Another Begins

When you lose a job, people often try to comfort you by saying everything happens for a reason. It is easy to hear those words, but it is much harder to believe them when you are in the middle of the storm. I questioned myself many times. I wondered where I was supposed to go, what I was supposed to do next, and how I would provide for my family.

During that time, I found myself thinking about teaching. My military service and law enforcement background have taught me discipline, leadership, and service. I realized those skills could help young people who needed structure and encouragement. I had always enjoyed mentoring others, and I started to feel a quiet pull toward education. It felt strange at first, almost like stepping into a new world. I had spent decades in uniforms and commanding roles. The classroom seemed softer and calmer, but it required the same commitment to excellence and the same sense of responsibility.

I began to understand that my purpose was shifting. I was being prepared for something new, something meaningful, and something that would challenge me in a different way. Losing a job did not end my story. I redirected it.

Finding My Purpose Through Teaching

The day I walked into a classroom as a JROTC instructor, something clicked inside me. Everything felt right. Teaching allowed me to bring my experience, my passion for discipline, and my heart for service into a space where young people needed guidance. Many of them were searching for direction and self-confidence. Some lacked structure at home, while others simply needed someone to believe in them.

I found myself pouring into my students in the same way my middle school coach, my Marine recruiter, and my father poured into me. These were the people who shaped my life. They taught me to value hard work, respect, and integrity. Now it was my turn to pass those lessons on to the next generation.

Teaching did not feel like a backup plan. It felt like the plan I was meant to follow all along.

Turning Setbacks Into Strength

One of the biggest lessons I learned from losing jobs is that setbacks can become fuel for growth. The moments that bring you to your knees can also bring you closer to your calling. When you reach rock bottom, you often discover what truly matters. For me, faith played a major role. My daily prayer time helped me stay focused and grounded. When you are looking up from the bottom, you see more clearly what God is trying to show you.

My journey taught me to find strength in hard times. I had to learn to let go of what was no longer meant for me. I had to trust that new opportunities would come. It was not easy, but it made me stronger, more patient, and more committed to serving others.

The Power of Servanthood and Leadership

Teaching showed me that leadership does not always look like a title or a badge. True leadership comes from serving others. It comes from showing up every day, giving one hundred percent, and caring about the success of the people around you. In the classroom, I learned that small actions make a big impact. A conversation can change a student’s day. A little encouragement can change their mindset. A caring teacher can change their life.

My time as a JROTC instructor reminded me of my Marine Corps roots. It reminded me of the value of discipline, responsibility, and teamwork. These lessons fit naturally into a school environment. I saw my students rise to expectations and discover their own strengths. That was the moment I knew I was exactly where I needed to be.

A Calling That Continues Today

Even though I am retired from full-time teaching, I continue to work as a substitute teacher because I cannot ignore the call to serve. Every time I enter a classroom, I am reminded of the path that brought me here. I think about the jobs I lost. I think about the challenges I faced. I think about the moments that once felt like endings but turned out to be beginnings.

Losing a job led me to the classroom, but teaching led me to my purpose. It gave me a new mission and a renewed sense of meaning. It allowed me to shape young lives and to grow as a leader, a mentor, and a man.

When the Road Shifts, Trust That a New Destination Is Waiting

If you are facing a setback in your own life, I want you to hear something from someone who has lived through more than a few. You are not at the end of your story. You may be standing in the middle of a season that feels confusing, painful, or unfair, but that season does not define you. It prepares you.

I learned this the hard way. I spent years thinking that each job loss was a sign that I had failed or that I had reached my limit. What I did not realize at the time was that those difficult moments were shaping me into the teacher, mentor, and servant leader I would later become. The classroom was waiting for me. My purpose was waiting for me. I just needed to walk through the storms first.

Wherever you stand today, remember that a shift in your path does not mean a dead end. Sometimes the road curves because you are being guided to a better destination. Stay patient. Stay faithful. Keep moving forward. You may discover that what feels like a loss today is the beginning of the most meaningful chapter of your life.

The post The Calling I Could Not Ignore: How Losing a Job Led Me to the Classroom appeared first on Curtis Bigelow.

My passion for this topic is one of the reasons I wrote my next book titled 4th Place… Learning to Read. I want to give parents simple tools that help their children become strong readers before they reach this key milestone. I believe every child can succeed when they are given support, patience, and consistency at home.

Why Third Grade Matters So Much

If you ask teachers, principals, or reading specialists, they will all tell you the same thing. Third grade is the year when the expectations rise quickly. Children are asked to read longer passages, understand more complex ideas, and explain what they read. Assignments begin to require more independent work. Students must keep up with a faster pace.

Reading becomes the bridge that connects them to every other lesson. Math word problems, science questions, and social studies passages all rely heavily on reading. When a child struggles to read, they begin to struggle everywhere. I saw this many times during my years in the classroom. Children who entered third grade with strong reading habits were more confident, more willing to participate, and more prepared to take on new challenges.

The good news is that parents can make a powerful difference long before their child reaches third grade. Reading at home is one of the greatest gifts you can give a child. It shapes their vocabulary, their imagination, and their belief in themselves.

Reading Begins at Home

One of the biggest myths is that reading is something only teachers can teach. The truth is that children learn just as much from the time they spend reading at home. A simple routine creates a strong foundation. You do not need expensive programs or complicated materials. You only need books, time, and consistency.

Set aside a few minutes each day to read with your child. It might be before bed, after dinner, or right when they get home from school. The time does not matter as much as the habit. When reading becomes part of your daily life, children begin to see it as something normal and enjoyable, not a chore.

Let your child choose some of the books. Children feel more excited when they have control over what they read. Mix in books that are slightly above their level to stretch their skills while still allowing them to enjoy easier stories.

Make Reading a Conversation

Many parents focus on sounding out words, but understanding the story is just as important. Talk with your child as you read. Ask questions like “What do you think will happen next?” or “Why do you think the character feels that way?” These simple conversations help develop reasoning, curiosity, and comprehension.

I often tell parents not to rush. Children need time to explore words and ideas. If they struggle, guide them gently. Correct mistakes with kindness and patience. Your goal is not to finish the book quickly. Your goal is to help them enjoy reading and understand what they see on the page.

Build Vocabulary Through Everyday Life

Reading skills are not built only through books. Children learn new words by hearing adults talk, asking questions, and experiencing new things. Take walks, visit parks, and talk about the world around you. Use simple explanations for new words and connect them to something familiar.

For example, if you introduce the word “journey,” you can say, “A journey is a long trip. When we drive to visit Grandma, that is a journey.” These small moments help children store new words in their minds and recognize them later in books.

Limit Distractions and Create a Reading Space

Children learn best in a calm space. Create a small reading area in your home with a chair, a few books, and good lighting. Turn off the TV and put phones away during reading time. A peaceful environment helps children focus and enjoy the experience.

You do not need anything fancy. Even a quiet corner will help your child connect reading with comfort and learning.

Celebrate The Small Wins

Children respond well to encouragement. Celebrate when your child finishes a book, learns a new word, or reads a sentence without help. These small victories add up over time. Praise builds confidence, and confidence keeps them moving forward.

During my teaching years, I saw how pride could transform a child’s attitude toward reading. A little encouragement can go a long way.

Preparing for the Third Grade Test

Many parents worry about third grade testing. The best preparation is to help your child become a confident reader long before the test arrives. Daily reading, strong vocabulary, and regular conversations about stories will strengthen their skills naturally. When children feel prepared, they feel less afraid.

Remind your child that a test does not define them. It is only one measure. What matters most is the effort they put in each day.

A Final Word of Encouragement

As a teacher, Marine, and lifelong student, I have learned that success comes from consistency and belief. Your child’s reading journey will not always be perfect. Some days will go smoothly and others may feel challenging. Stay patient and stay committed. You are building habits that will guide them for the rest of their life.

Third grade is important, but your support at home is even more important. When you read with your child, you are opening doors that lead to confidence, curiosity, and a lifetime of learning. You are shaping their future one page at a time.

The post Preparing Young Readers for 3rd Grade Success: What Every Parent Should Know appeared first on Curtis Bigelow.

When I think about education, I always come back to one fundamental truth: reading is the gateway to learning. Early literacy is not just about knowing letters or sounding out words. It is about opening doors to curiosity, imagination, and critical thinking. My upcoming book, 4th Place… Gaining Momentum through Reading, explores how foundational reading skills can set a child up for success in every area of life. Children who develop strong literacy skills early are better equipped to explore ideas, solve problems, and engage with the world around them.

Reading early is not only about academics. It builds confidence, independence, and self-expression. When a child learns to read, they gain a sense of control over their learning. They can follow instructions, understand new concepts, and even enjoy the satisfaction of exploring stories on their own. Early reading encourages curiosity and sets the stage for a lifelong love of learning.

Start Before School

Parents often ask when the best time to start is. The truth is, it can begin long before formal schooling. Talking to children, singing songs, and reading aloud from infancy can make a big difference. Hearing language consistently helps children recognize sounds, patterns, and rhythms, all of which are critical for reading.

Reading aloud with your child is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to support literacy. It creates a positive association with books and language. Even if a child cannot read yet, they are absorbing vocabulary, sentence structure, and comprehension skills. Reading becomes a shared experience, a way to bond, and an opportunity to spark curiosity about the world.

Make Reading Part of Daily Life

Early literacy works best when it is consistent and engaging. Children benefit from seeing reading as a natural part of life. Simple routines, like a bedtime story or reading labels at the grocery store, show them that words are everywhere and can be interesting.

It’s also important to let children make choices. Let them pick books that catch their attention, even if they seem too simple or whimsical. Reading for enjoyment encourages a love of stories and self-motivated learning. When children choose books themselves, they feel ownership of their reading journey.

Practical Tips for Parents

Helping children develop early literacy skills does not have to be complicated. Here are some practical strategies:

• Read aloud daily: Even fifteen minutes a day builds vocabulary and comprehension.
  
• Point out words in the environment: Signs, labels, and menus are great for learning context.
  
• Ask questions about stories: Encourage children to think critically about what they read.
  
• Play with letters and sounds: Simple games, songs, and rhymes make learning fun.
  
• Celebrate milestones: Praise effort, not just achievement, to build confidence and motivation.
  

Consistency is more important than perfection. Children learn through repetition and exposure. The goal is to make reading enjoyable, not a chore.

The Long-Term Benefits

Early reading impacts every stage of education. Children who enter school with strong literacy skills are more likely to succeed in math, science, and social studies. Reading comprehension allows them to understand instructions, analyze information, and express ideas effectively. These skills are not confined to the classroom—they become tools for lifelong learning and problem-solving.

Research also shows that early readers are more confident learners. They are more likely to participate in discussions, ask questions, and seek out new information. Reading builds independence and empowers children to explore on their own. A child who reads early is a child who feels capable and curious about the world.

Encouraging a Growth Mindset

Reading early is also an opportunity to teach resilience and persistence. Children may struggle with difficult words or new concepts, but overcoming these challenges builds a growth mindset. They learn that effort leads to improvement and that mistakes are part of learning.

As a parent or educator, modeling a positive attitude toward reading matters. Show excitement about books, share your own reading experiences, and be patient when children struggle. Your attitude will influence how they perceive reading and learning overall.

Creating a Reading-Rich Environment

A reading-rich environment encourages exploration and curiosity. Make books accessible, create a cozy reading space, and integrate reading into daily activities. Libraries, bookstores, and digital resources can expand choices and introduce children to a variety of subjects.

It is also helpful to connect reading with real-world experiences. After reading about a farm, visit one. After a story about space, look at the stars together. These connections help children see the relevance of what they read and reinforce comprehension.

Preparing for a Lifetime of Learning

The habits children develop in their early years can influence their educational trajectory for life. By prioritizing early literacy, parents and educators give children the skills and confidence to continue learning independently. They also instill a love of reading that will serve as a foundation for personal growth, academic achievement, and professional success.

Early reading is about more than recognizing words on a page. It is about fostering curiosity, resilience, and a lifelong passion for learning. Programs, books, and strategies like those outlined in 4th Place… Gaining Momentum through Reading provides parents with the tools to guide children through these critical early stages. The skills developed in these early years will pay dividends for a lifetime, shaping children into capable, confident, and curious learners.

The post Why Reading Early Matters: Preparing Children for Lifelong Learning appeared first on Curtis Bigelow.

Education is about more than textbooks, grades, and test scores. It’s about shaping the kind of people our students will become long after they leave the classroom. As someone who has spent years working with students in structured programs like JROTC, I’ve seen firsthand how discipline, respect, and responsibility can transform young lives. Character education is not a side benefit of programs like these—it’s the foundation.

In a world that often prioritizes convenience and instant gratification, discipline may sound old-fashioned. But it’s exactly what many young people need. Discipline teaches perseverance. It helps students learn to follow through, take ownership, and set standards for themselves. When students understand that actions have consequences—both good and bad—they begin to develop the maturity needed to navigate life’s challenges.

Why Discipline Still Matters

Discipline is not about punishment. It’s about structure, consistency, and self-control. These are traits that prepare students for the real world. In JROTC, for example, students learn to show up on time, wear their uniforms with pride, and work together toward shared goals. These daily habits translate into long-term life skills.

What I’ve seen is that discipline creates confidence. When a student realizes they can meet expectations, no matter how demanding, it builds a sense of accomplishment. That confidence carries over into academics, sports, and personal growth. Discipline teaches students that success doesn’t come from talent alone—it comes from effort, dedication, and the ability to stay focused even when things get tough.

Lessons Beyond the Classroom

Structured programs like JROTC go beyond academics by developing skills that aren’t measured on a report card. Leadership, teamwork, and accountability are cornerstones of the experience. Students learn to lead by example and to respect the process of earning responsibility.

I’ve watched students who were once shy and uncertain grow into confident leaders who can stand in front of their peers and take charge. That transformation doesn’t happen overnight, but it happens through repetition, mentorship, and a belief in the program’s values. These students learn that their words matter, their actions carry weight, and their choices define their reputation.

Leadership Through Service

One of the most powerful lessons JROTC instills is that leadership is rooted in service. The best leaders are those who serve others first. Students learn that being in charge isn’t about authority—it’s about responsibility. They understand that leadership means setting the tone, supporting others, and doing what’s right even when it’s difficult.

Through community projects and volunteer work, cadets experience firsthand the value of giving back. They learn that making a difference doesn’t require recognition—it requires commitment. That’s a lesson that stays with them long after graduation.

The Role of Mentorship

Another reason programs like JROTC are so effective is mentorship. Instructors model the very principles they teach. They show students what integrity, discipline, and perseverance look like in action. Mentorship bridges the gap between instruction and inspiration.

I’ve seen mentors guide students through personal struggles, offering structure and support when life feels uncertain. Sometimes what a young person needs most is someone who holds them accountable while believing in their potential. That combination—high expectations with genuine care—can change the trajectory of a student’s life.

Accountability Builds Resilience

In today’s world, it’s easy to avoid responsibility. Excuses come quicker than effort. But accountability is where growth happens. When students learn to own their actions—both successes and failures—they develop resilience. They start to see challenges not as obstacles but as opportunities to improve.

In JROTC, accountability is a daily practice. Cadets are expected to be prepared, to meet standards, and to contribute to their teams. When they fall short, they learn to regroup and try again. That lesson in resilience—learning to get back up after failure—is one of the most valuable skills anyone can have in life.

The Long-Term Impact

The discipline and structure students learn in programs like JROTC don’t disappear after graduation. They carry those values into college, careers, and adulthood. Employers notice it. Families benefit from it. Communities are strengthened by it. These programs shape individuals who are reliable, respectful, and ready to lead.

Many former cadets tell me that what they learned about time management, teamwork, and integrity has helped them succeed far beyond their school years. They understand how to handle pressure, communicate effectively, and stay calm in difficult situations. Those aren’t just military skills—they’re life skills.

Education That Builds Character

We often talk about preparing students for college or the workforce, but what about preparing them for life? Programs rooted in discipline and character building do exactly that. They teach young people how to think critically, act responsibly, and treat others with respect. They learn to lead not with ego, but with empathy.

Education should build more than knowledge—it should build character. And discipline is at the heart of that process. It provides the structure that allows creativity, confidence, and leadership to grow. Students who learn discipline early are better equipped to handle the complexities of adulthood.

A Foundation That Lasts

When I think about the students who have gone through JROTC and similar programs, I see a common thread: they stand taller. They speak with confidence. They know who they are. That’s the result of an education that prioritizes discipline and character development.

Discipline doesn’t limit students—it frees them. It gives them the foundation to achieve their goals and the resilience to face whatever life throws their way. Academic success is important, but without character, it’s incomplete. Programs like JROTC remind us that education is not just about what you know, but who you become.

The post Why Discipline Still Matters: Building Character Through Education appeared first on Curtis Bigelow.